New Zealand Fashion Week always does a good job of picking a stellar show to end the week with and there are few shows whose tickets are as highly coveted as Zambesi’s. So it was a packed house that eagerly awaited Zambesi’s turn on the main runway to close out an excellent few days of local fashion shows and send the assembled crowd home on a local fashion high.
Always keen to put their own spin on the business of presenting a show, who can forget when they opened up the backstage area to the audience in 2013, showing a fascinating glimpse behind-the-scenes as the final touches were put on each look before hitting the runway. This time Zambesi had opted to lay a wood-look vinyl runway down, which provided an earthy feel to the space and would mark a collection that featured warmer hues than previous winter collections.
Beginning with a high-collared grey suit which featured a handwritten Zambesi logo around the ankle cuff (that would continue to appear on t-shirts and knits), it set the tone for a range that featured many impeccably tailored garments that blurred the lines between day and evening wear. Lovely tones of plum, grape, caramel and pops of canary warmed up the base colours of black, grey, navy and white with a rich effect. Sleek coats were tied to emphasise the waist on women, who also wore beautiful sequined tunic styles and relaxed-fit dresses in wool and quilting. The menswear featured a range of sophisticated suiting which displayed Zambesi’s ability to incorporate the likes of luxurious fur coats and fringed leather while still looking modern and highly desirable.
There were many delightful details to look out for including contrast stitching, elongated sleeves and exaggerated shoulders which add to the uniqueness of Zambesi’s garments. Everything was exactingly finished and carefully curated to create an exceptional range that is practical and celebrates individuality. It was definitely an international standard show and collection which demonstrated why Zambesi are so adored and continue to be at the top of their game.
By Evelyn Ebrey www.justsopretty.net
Images: Yvonne Shearer Photography Yvonneshearer.com